The Saudi Arabian side got their campaign off to the best possible start with a narrow victory at the Jaber al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait City.

It came after the tournament, switched to Kuwait from Qatar after FIFA lifted the nation's suspension, began with a short Opening Ceremony.

Salma Al-Moasher put Saudi Arabia in front early on as he broke the deadlock in the 13th minute of the Group A encounter.

The Saudi Arabians, who have qualified for next year's World Cup in Russia, doubled their advantage seven minutes into the second half through Mukhtar Fallatah.

Abdullah Al Buraiki responded shortly after as he halved the deficit to give Kuwait hope of an unlikely comeback.

But Saudi Arabia's defence held firm in the face of mounting Kuwait pressure to ensure they started the eight-team tournament with a win.

In the other match in Group A, the United Arab Emirates overcame Oman 1-0 in a tight clash at the same venue.

Ali Mabkhout scored the game's only goal from the penalty spot after 28 minutes, which proved enough for the UAE to earn a narrow victory.

The tournament was initially due to be held in the 2022 World Cup host nation but was switched to ensure the participation of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

All three nations had withdrawn after "severing ties" with Qatar following accusations that the nation is supporting terrorism, accusations which they have denied.

Kuwait was scheduled to stage the event in 2016 but it was postponed as a result of a suspension from FIFA imposed due to Government interference in sport.

This suspension was suddenly lifted after an unannounced visit from FIFA President Gianni Infantino amid lobbying by Government representatives from Qatar.

Defending champions Qatar are in action when the tournament resumes tomorrow as they take on Yemen before Bahrain play Iraq in Group B.